AirAsia Pilot’s Emotional Announcement on Last Flight After Merger: “Retain Your Boarding Pass as a Piece of History”
AirAsia Pilot's Emotional Announcement on Last Flight After Merger: "Retain Your Boarding Pass as a Piece of History"
In a heartfelt moment, an AirAsia pilot made an emotional announcement on the last flight under the AirAsia India name, following the successful merger with Air India Express. The pilot urged passengers to “retain your boarding pass” as a memento of this historic occasion. The merger of Air India Express and AIX Connect (formerly AirAsia India) became official on October 1, after receiving approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This integration is a major part of Tata Group’s strategy to streamline its airline operations.
With the consolidation of Air India Express and AIX Connect, the airline will now operate under the unified Air India Express brand, using the airline code “IX.” The move marks a significant expansion of both the fleet and route network, positioning Air India Express as a leading low-cost carrier.
Vikram Dev Dutt, Director General of DGCA, praised the merger, stating, “The successful integration of AIX Connect with Air India Express is commendable and serves as a benchmark for airline mergers.” The consolidation aims to simplify Tata’s airline portfolio ahead of another key merger between Vistara and Air India, scheduled for completion by November 12.
Campbell Wilson, Managing Director of Air India and Chairman of Air India Express, highlighted the significance of the merger, stating, “The integration of AIX Connect with Air India Express is an important milestone in Air India’s Vihaan.ai transformation journey. The merged entity will cater to the growing demand for air travel in India and the region, particularly among the country’s aspirational youth.”
This merger marks a new era for the Indian aviation industry, setting the stage for a more streamlined and competitive airline landscape under Tata Group’s leadership
